(AP) — The Kansas City Royals overcame the absence of 10 unvaccinated players to beat the Toronto Blue Jays 3-1. 

Double-A callup Angel Zerpa pitched five solid innings in his first major league start and Bobby Witt Jr. hit a tiebreaking home run for Kansas City. Nate Eaton homered in his major league debut as the Royals won for the fifth time in six games. 

Players who aren't vaccinated against COVID-19 aren't allowed to enter Canada. Among the Royals who stayed home were All-Star outfielder Andrew Benintendi, two-time All-Star Whit Merrifield, future cornerstones Kyle Isbel and MJ Melendez and outfielder Michael A. Taylor.

The Royals take on the Blue Jays again Friday evening with first pitch at 6:07 central. Coverage begins at 5:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — The Kansas City Royals overcame the absence of 10 unvaccinated players to beat the Toronto Blue Jays 3-1. Double-A callup Angel Zerpa pitched five solid innings in his first major league start and Bobby Witt Jr. hit a tiebreaking home run for Kansas City. Nate Eaton homered in his major league debut as the Royals won for the fifth time in six games. Players who aren't vaccinated against COVID-19 aren't allowed to enter Canada. Among the Royals who stayed home were All-Star outfielder Andrew Benintendi, two-time All-Star Whit Merrifield, future cornerstones Kyle Isbel and MJ Melendez and outfielder Michael A. Taylor.The Royals take on the Blue Jays again Friday evening with first pitch at 6:07 central. Coverage begins at 5:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Royals beat Jays 3-1 with 10 unvaccinated players absent

(AP) — Brady Singer won for the first time in over a month as the Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 5-2. 

The Royals earned their first winning homestand since July last year. Singer allowed 12 baserunners and repeatedly pitched out of trouble for his first victory since June 8. 

Andrew Benintendi collected his tenth multi-hit game out of his last 16 starts as he prepares for his first All-Star Game. Kansas City batted around in the fourth against Tarik Skubal, who has lost six of his last seven starts. Scott Barlow finished with his 15th save.

The Royals take on the Blue Jays Thursday evening with first pitch at 6:07 central. Coverage begins at 5:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Brady Singer won for the first time in over a month as the Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 5-2. The Royals earned their first winning homestand since July last year. Singer allowed 12 baserunners and repeatedly pitched out of trouble for his first victory since June 8. Andrew Benintendi collected his tenth multi-hit game out of his last 16 starts as he prepares for his first All-Star Game. Kansas City batted around in the fourth against Tarik Skubal, who has lost six of his last seven starts. Scott Barlow finished with his 15th save.The Royals take on the Blue Jays Thursday evening with first pitch at 6:07 central. Coverage begins at 5:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Singer leads Royals to 5-2 victory and series win vs Tigers

The St. Joseph Mustangs got behind early and couldn’t recover in a 4-2 loss to the Des Moines Peak Prospects on Wednesday afternoon in Des Moines.

The Mustangs fell behind 4-0 after three innings and scored two runs in the top of the seventh, but never got closer.

St. Joseph was held to just five hits, but Savannah alum Noah Bodenhausen went 3-for-4 in the game with an RBI. Pitcher Mason Holton took the loss in four innings, striking out five and allowing four earned runs.

St. Joseph is now 26-11 on the season. They’re back home Thursday to host Clarinda in a critical MINK League North Division battle. First pitch at Phil Welch Stadium is set for 7 p.m.

Clarinda is 24-10 in league play. St. Joseph is 22-11. The Mustangs trail Clarinda for the North Division lead by a game-and-a-half.

The As and Mustangs have already played five times this season and St. Joseph is 3-2 in those games. The As beat the Mustangs in Clarinda this past Monday in the most recent meeting, 8-3.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs got behind early and couldn’t recover in a 4-2 loss to the Des Moines Peak Prospects on Wednesday afternoon in Des Moines.The Mustangs fell behind 4-0 after three innings and scored two runs in the top of the seventh, but never got closer.St. Joseph was held to just five hits, but Savannah alum Noah Bodenhausen went 3-for-4 in the game with an RBI. Pitcher Mason Holton took the loss in four innings, striking out five and allowing four earned runs.St. Joseph is now 26-11 on the season. They’re back home Thursday to host Clarinda in a critical MINK League North Division battle. First pitch at Phil Welch Stadium is set for 7 p.m.Clarinda is 24-10 in league play. St. Joseph is 22-11. The Mustangs trail Clarinda for the North Division lead by a game-and-a-half.The As and Mustangs have already played five times this season and St. Joseph is 3-2 in those games. The As beat the Mustangs in Clarinda this past Monday in the most recent meeting, 8-3.

Mustangs fall at Des Moines Wednesday, come home to face Clarinda Thursday

Kansas City Chiefs Training Camp is coming up quick, and the city of St. Joseph is already rolling out the red carpet.

The St. Joseph Visitors Center has been handing out 'Welcome Chiefs' signs Wednesday, starting at 11 a.m. and going until 6 p.m. or until supplies run out.

The signs are free. Visitor Center employee Bill Alexander says they saw a large number of people come get their signs as soon as they became available.

"It started real busy at 11 with a line out across the parking lot," Alexander said. "It's just been a steady flow ever since."

The Visitor Center started with 1,400 signs, and were down to about 450 just before 2 p.m. Alexander says 500 signs were gone within the first hour.

There is a limit of two signs per person. Alexander says the bright red 'Welcome Chiefs' signs are a staple of training camp, and he believes they make the coaches and players feel welcome.

"I think (the Chiefs) are all glad to drive down the street and see all of the Chiefs signs out and the red shirts and everything in town," he said.

If there are any signs left over after 6 p.m. Wednesday, people can still stop by and pick them up at the Visitor Center until they're gone.

Later this month, the City of St. Joseph will host the 'Red Rally' in Civic Center Park to officially welcome the Chiefs to the city.

The Red Rally will be July 29th from 2-7 p.m. with&nbsp;live music, inflatables, food trucks and more.

Country music artist Blane Howard will take the stage at 4:45 p.m., followed by the voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus, KC Wolf, Chiefs cheerleaders and Rumble Drumline at 6 p.m.

The city will announce the headline entertainer for the Red Rally coming up this Friday. This marks the 12th year of Chiefs training camp in St. Joseph.

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657743452674.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostKansas City Chiefs Training Camp is coming up quick, and the city of St. Joseph is already rolling out the red carpet.The St. Joseph Visitors Center has been handing out 'Welcome Chiefs' signs Wednesday, starting at 11 a.m. and going until 6 p.m. or until supplies run out.The signs are free. Visitor Center employee Bill Alexander says they saw a large number of people come get their signs as soon as they became available."It started real busy at 11 with a line out across the parking lot," Alexander said. "It's just been a steady flow ever since."The Visitor Center started with 1,400 signs, and were down to about 450 just before 2 p.m. Alexander says 500 signs were gone within the first hour.There is a limit of two signs per person. Alexander says the bright red 'Welcome Chiefs' signs are a staple of training camp, and he believes they make the coaches and players feel welcome."I think (the Chiefs) are all glad to drive down the street and see all of the Chiefs signs out and the red shirts and everything in town," he said.If there are any signs left over after 6 p.m. Wednesday, people can still stop by and pick them up at the Visitor Center until they're gone.Later this month, the City of St. Joseph will host the 'Red Rally' in Civic Center Park to officially welcome the Chiefs to the city.The Red Rally will be July 29th from 2-7 p.m. with&nbsp;live music, inflatables, food trucks and more.Country music artist Blane Howard will take the stage at 4:45 p.m., followed by the voice of the Chiefs Mitch Holthus, KC Wolf, Chiefs cheerleaders and Rumble Drumline at 6 p.m.The city will announce the headline entertainer for the Red Rally coming up this Friday. This marks the 12th year of Chiefs training camp in St. Joseph.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657743756010.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Welcome Chiefs! signs handed out in St. Joseph Wednesday as training camp nears

(AP) — Miguel Cabrera drove in the tying and go-ahead runs, matching Ted Williams for 14th place on the career RBI list, and the Detroit Tigers rallied past the Kansas City Royals 7-5 to snap a four-game skid. 

Cabrera’s sacrifice fly in the fifth inning made it 3-3, and he had an RBI grounder for the Tigers’ first run in a four-run seventh. He equaled Williams with 1,838 RBIs. Later in the seventh, Cabrera stole third and scored on a wild throw. 

It was just his second stolen base in the past seven seasons. The Royals committed four errors as their three-game winning streak ended.

The Royals take on the Tigers again Wednesday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 central on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Miguel Cabrera drove in the tying and go-ahead runs, matching Ted Williams for 14th place on the career RBI list, and the Detroit Tigers rallied past the Kansas City Royals 7-5 to snap a four-game skid. Cabrera’s sacrifice fly in the fifth inning made it 3-3, and he had an RBI grounder for the Tigers’ first run in a four-run seventh. He equaled Williams with 1,838 RBIs. Later in the seventh, Cabrera stole third and scored on a wild throw. It was just his second stolen base in the past seven seasons. The Royals committed four errors as their three-game winning streak ended.The Royals take on the Tigers again Wednesday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 central on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Cabrera drives in 2 to tie Williams, Tigers beat Royals 7-5

The St. Joseph Mustangs swept a doubleheader against the Des Moines Peak Prospects on the road Tuesday.

St. Joseph breezed through the first game 15-1 and came from behind in the second one to win 6-5. Both games were seven innings in length.

Bishop LeBlond alum William Dryburgh was 2-for-3 with three runs scored and a double in the first game. Michael Paule was 4-for-4 in the first game as well.

In the second game, the Mustangs got down 5-1 after three innings, but scored five runs in the fifth to grab the lead and they hung on from there.

 Mid-Buchanan and Missouri Western alum Brady Holden doubled and scored two runs in the second game. St. Joseph Central alum Dawson Smith was the winning pitcher, going five innings, striking out two and allowing three earned runs.

Jay Greco managed a two-inning save, striking out three.

The Mustangs are now 26-10 on the season. St. Joseph will play one more game at Des Moines Wednesday night at 7 p.m.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs swept a doubleheader against the Des Moines Peak Prospects on the road Tuesday.St. Joseph breezed through the first game 15-1 and came from behind in the second one to win 6-5. Both games were seven innings in length.Bishop LeBlond alum William Dryburgh was 2-for-3 with three runs scored and a double in the first game. Michael Paule was 4-for-4 in the first game as well.In the second game, the Mustangs got down 5-1 after three innings, but scored five runs in the fifth to grab the lead and they hung on from there. Mid-Buchanan and Missouri Western alum Brady Holden doubled and scored two runs in the second game. St. Joseph Central alum Dawson Smith was the winning pitcher, going five innings, striking out two and allowing three earned runs.Jay Greco managed a two-inning save, striking out three.The Mustangs are now 26-10 on the season. St. Joseph will play one more game at Des Moines Wednesday night at 7 p.m.

Mustangs sweep doubleheader at Des Moines Tuesday

(AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. had his first career four-hit game along with three RBIs to help the Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 7-3 for a doubleheader sweep.

 In the opener, Brad Keller tossed seven strong innings and rookie Vinnie Pasquantino homered and drove in two runs as the Royals beat the Tigers 3-1. 

Witt had a hit in each of the first three innings in the late game, giving him six hits for the doubleheader. He scored twice and stole three bases on the day. Detroit starter Alex Faedo slogged through a 37-pitch first inning, walking the bases full after Witt tied it with a double.

The Royals take on the Tigers again Tuesday evening with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. had his first career four-hit game along with three RBIs to help the Kansas City Royals beat the Detroit Tigers 7-3 for a doubleheader sweep. In the opener, Brad Keller tossed seven strong innings and rookie Vinnie Pasquantino homered and drove in two runs as the Royals beat the Tigers 3-1. Witt had a hit in each of the first three innings in the late game, giving him six hits for the doubleheader. He scored twice and stole three bases on the day. Detroit starter Alex Faedo slogged through a 37-pitch first inning, walking the bases full after Witt tied it with a double.The Royals take on the Tigers again Tuesday evening with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Bobby Witt Jr. has 4 hits, Royals sweep twinbill vs Tigers

The St. Joseph Mustangs enter the final portion of the regular season as the hottest team in the MINK League.

The Mustangs have a league-best record of 24-9, have won their last 12 games at home and they lead the league in runs, RBIs, stolen bases and on-base percentage.

Mustangs manager Johnny Coy says the biggest key to success has been the team settling in and simply having fun.

"Guys are having fun," Coy told St. Joseph Post. "They're just taking it game-by-game and not worried about the playoffs just yet. Just trying to get better everyday and just keep having fun. That's the most important thing."

"When you're in a college summer wood bat league season, it can get long. It's always hot, it can be draining. The guys are just concentrating on having fun and just enjoying each other's company and playing baseball."

The Mustangs swept a pair of home games against the Kansas City Monarchs and Joplin Outlaws over the weekend. The win over the Monarchs this past Friday was a 4-3 walk off.

It's a familiar sensation for St. Joseph - a team that owns six walk off wins this season, including three over the Fourth of July weekend.

 Outfielder and third-year Mustang Brady Holden says this team has no quit and has learned to play well as a group.

"We just play well together," he said. "We'll get down early and I think we've had at least five games we've won on walk offs. You can't count us out. We play hard until the last out."

Part of the secret to this success at home is the fans. The Mustangs lead the MINK League in attendance by a wide margin, averaging 2,473 fans per home game. It’s helped the Mustangs to an outstanding 16-4 record at Phil Welch Stadium this summer.

Holden, a Mid-Buchanan and Missouri Western alum, says whether you’re local or not, playing in front of this fanbase is second-to-none.

"It's my favorite part about playing here," Holden said. "I mean, the atmosphere here is insane. We go on the road, but nothing compares to playing here in front of so many fans. Most college kids don't get that experience. So, it's unreal."

Having fun, entertaining the fans and getting reps are all staples of summer league baseball. Still, everyone wants to win the championship at the end.

The Mustangs still have 14 regular season games left, starting with a road trip to Clarinda Monday, before playoffs start in the final week of July.

Coy says the players are enjoying every moment while still keeping their eye on the prize.

"Our guys are really set on it," he said. "They have their minds on it. They're taking it one game at a time, but in the back of their minds, they know if we're playing well at the end of the year, this whole 'never say quit' attitude is going to come in handy toward the end of the year, and hopefully we can end up like we did last year - on top."

Pitcher and Savannah native Braden Berry tossed six innings and earned the win when the Mustangs knocked off Sedalia last year 12-2 for the team’s seventh league championship.

Berry, who has pitched a team-high 28.2 innings in five starts this season, and who leads the team with 30 strikeouts,&nbsp;says trying to become the first team in the league's history to threepeat serves as great motivation to run it back this summer.

"To put yourself in the history books, especially in this great organization, it's something we want to be a part of," Berry said. "You want to go down as something to build your legacy on, but to do something special like a threepeat would be amazing."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657562707448.jpeg" alt="Brady Holden. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Brady Holden. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs enter the final portion of the regular season as the hottest team in the MINK League.The Mustangs have a league-best record of 24-9, have won their last 12 games at home and they lead the league in runs, RBIs, stolen bases and on-base percentage.Mustangs manager Johnny Coy says the biggest key to success has been the team settling in and simply having fun."Guys are having fun," Coy told St. Joseph Post. "They're just taking it game-by-game and not worried about the playoffs just yet. Just trying to get better everyday and just keep having fun. That's the most important thing.""When you're in a college summer wood bat league season, it can get long. It's always hot, it can be draining. The guys are just concentrating on having fun and just enjoying each other's company and playing baseball."The Mustangs swept a pair of home games against the Kansas City Monarchs and Joplin Outlaws over the weekend. The win over the Monarchs this past Friday was a 4-3 walk off.It's a familiar sensation for St. Joseph - a team that owns six walk off wins this season, including three over the Fourth of July weekend. Outfielder and third-year Mustang Brady Holden says this team has no quit and has learned to play well as a group."We just play well together," he said. "We'll get down early and I think we've had at least five games we've won on walk offs. You can't count us out. We play hard until the last out."Part of the secret to this success at home is the fans. The Mustangs lead the MINK League in attendance by a wide margin, averaging 2,473 fans per home game. It’s helped the Mustangs to an outstanding 16-4 record at Phil Welch Stadium this summer.Holden, a Mid-Buchanan and Missouri Western alum, says whether you’re local or not, playing in front of this fanbase is second-to-none."It's my favorite part about playing here," Holden said. "I mean, the atmosphere here is insane. We go on the road, but nothing compares to playing here in front of so many fans. Most college kids don't get that experience. So, it's unreal."Having fun, entertaining the fans and getting reps are all staples of summer league baseball. Still, everyone wants to win the championship at the end.The Mustangs still have 14 regular season games left, starting with a road trip to Clarinda Monday, before playoffs start in the final week of July.Coy says the players are enjoying every moment while still keeping their eye on the prize."Our guys are really set on it," he said. "They have their minds on it. They're taking it one game at a time, but in the back of their minds, they know if we're playing well at the end of the year, this whole 'never say quit' attitude is going to come in handy toward the end of the year, and hopefully we can end up like we did last year - on top."Pitcher and Savannah native Braden Berry tossed six innings and earned the win when the Mustangs knocked off Sedalia last year 12-2 for the team’s seventh league championship.Berry, who has pitched a team-high 28.2 innings in five starts this season, and who leads the team with 30 strikeouts,&nbsp;says trying to become the first team in the league's history to threepeat serves as great motivation to run it back this summer."To put yourself in the history books, especially in this great organization, it's something we want to be a part of," Berry said. "You want to go down as something to build your legacy on, but to do something special like a threepeat would be amazing."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657566812226.jpeg" alt="Ty Hilsabeck. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Ty Hilsabeck. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mustangs enter home stretch of the season, poised to take MINK League crown again

(AP) — José Ramírez hit his first home run in nearly a month, rookie Nolan Jones connected for an impressive first homer of his career and the Cleveland Guardians stopped a five-game skid, roughing up the Kansas City Royals 13-1. 

The Guardians totaled a season-high 23 hits and led 11-0 after four innings. Amed Rosario homered off Royals center fielder Michael Taylor in a two-run ninth. 

Triston McKenzie tossed six scoreless innings of three-hit ball for Cleveland. Ramírez had an RBI single in the first and hit a two-run drive in the second. He leads the AL with 66 RBIs. A day after getting two hits in his big league debut, Jones launched a 457-foot, three-run drive into the Kauffman Stadium fountains to cap a five-run fourth inning.

The Royals take on Cleveland again Sunday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 central. Coverage begins at 12:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — José Ramírez hit his first home run in nearly a month, rookie Nolan Jones connected for an impressive first homer of his career and the Cleveland Guardians stopped a five-game skid, roughing up the Kansas City Royals 13-1. The Guardians totaled a season-high 23 hits and led 11-0 after four innings. Amed Rosario homered off Royals center fielder Michael Taylor in a two-run ninth. Triston McKenzie tossed six scoreless innings of three-hit ball for Cleveland. Ramírez had an RBI single in the first and hit a two-run drive in the second. He leads the AL with 66 RBIs. A day after getting two hits in his big league debut, Jones launched a 457-foot, three-run drive into the Kauffman Stadium fountains to cap a five-run fourth inning.The Royals take on Cleveland again Sunday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 central. Coverage begins at 12:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Ramírez, rookie Jones homer, Guardians rout Royals 13-1

(AP) — Michael A. Taylor hit a game-ending RBI single, and the Kansas City Royals beat the slumping Cleveland Guardians 4-3. Vinnie Pasquantino opened the Kansas City ninth with a double to right against Sam Hentges (2-1) that nearly cleared the fence. 

Edward Olivares then entered the game as a pinch-runner. After Kyle Isbel struck out on a foul bunt, Taylor poked a 1-2 pitch into right for the winning hit. 

Cleveland led 3-1 after seven innings, but Whit Merrifield hit a tying two-run homer in the eighth against Eli Morgan. It was just his second homer in 42 games. The Guardians have lost five straight and seven of eight overall.

The Royals take on Cleveland again Saturday afternoon with first pitch at 3:10 central. Coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Michael A. Taylor hit a game-ending RBI single, and the Kansas City Royals beat the slumping Cleveland Guardians 4-3. Vinnie Pasquantino opened the Kansas City ninth with a double to right against Sam Hentges (2-1) that nearly cleared the fence. Edward Olivares then entered the game as a pinch-runner. After Kyle Isbel struck out on a foul bunt, Taylor poked a 1-2 pitch into right for the winning hit. Cleveland led 3-1 after seven innings, but Whit Merrifield hit a tying two-run homer in the eighth against Eli Morgan. It was just his second homer in 42 games. The Guardians have lost five straight and seven of eight overall.The Royals take on Cleveland again Saturday afternoon with first pitch at 3:10 central. Coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Taylor gets winning hit as Royals beat slumping Guardians

(AP) — Justin Verlander got his 11th win, Yordan Alvarez hit his 26th homer and the Houston Astros beat the Kansas City Royals 5-2 to take the series 3-1. 

Jose Altuve added a homer and three RBIs for the Astros. They bounced back after a 7-4 loss Wednesday night that snapped an eight-game winning streak. 

Verlander grinded through six innings, allowing seven hits and two runs — one earned — with eight strikeouts to lower his ERA to 2.00 in his return from Tommy John surgery. His ERA, opponent average and WHIP all rank second in the American League.

The Royals next take on Cleveland Friday evening with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Justin Verlander got his 11th win, Yordan Alvarez hit his 26th homer and the Houston Astros beat the Kansas City Royals 5-2 to take the series 3-1. Jose Altuve added a homer and three RBIs for the Astros. They bounced back after a 7-4 loss Wednesday night that snapped an eight-game winning streak. Verlander grinded through six innings, allowing seven hits and two runs — one earned — with eight strikeouts to lower his ERA to 2.00 in his return from Tommy John surgery. His ERA, opponent average and WHIP all rank second in the American League.The Royals next take on Cleveland Friday evening with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Verlander earns 11th win, leading Astros past Royals 5-2

(AP) — Whit Merrifield, Hunter Dozier and Emmanuel Rivera all homered as the Kansas City Royals roughed up Cristian Javier early and held on for a 7-4 win over the Houston Astros. 

The Astros' major league-best eight-game winning streak was snapped. Javier had allowed one hit in 14 innings over his last two starts. But the Royals got to him almost immediately. 

Merrifield sent Javier’s third pitch into the seats in left field. Dozier had a two-run shot later in the inning. Brad Keller allowed five hits and four runs in 5 2/3 innings and the Royals’ bullpen shut the Astros down the rest of the way.

The Royals take on the Astros again Thursday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 central on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Whit Merrifield, Hunter Dozier and Emmanuel Rivera all homered as the Kansas City Royals roughed up Cristian Javier early and held on for a 7-4 win over the Houston Astros. The Astros' major league-best eight-game winning streak was snapped. Javier had allowed one hit in 14 innings over his last two starts. But the Royals got to him almost immediately. Merrifield sent Javier’s third pitch into the seats in left field. Dozier had a two-run shot later in the inning. Brad Keller allowed five hits and four runs in 5 2/3 innings and the Royals’ bullpen shut the Astros down the rest of the way.The Royals take on the Astros again Thursday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 central on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Royals hit 3 HRs off Javier, end Astros' 8-game win streak

(AP) — Yordan Alvarez threw out Hunter Dozier at the plate from just short of the warning track in left field to preserve a two-run, eighth-inning lead, then hit his 25th homer as the Houston Astros beat the Kansas City Royals 9-7. 

The Astros also got homers from Jeremy Peña, Alex Bregman and Aledmys Díaz as they extended their winning streak to a major league-best eight games. 

Nicky Lopez hit a deep flyball in the eighth that Alvarez caught and fired on the fly to catcher Martin Maldonado, who tagged out Dozier for an inning-ending double play. Alvarez then went deep to chants of “M-V-P!”

The Royals take on the Astros again Wednesday evening with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

(AP) — Yordan Alvarez threw out Hunter Dozier at the plate from just short of the warning track in left field to preserve a two-run, eighth-inning lead, then hit his 25th homer as the Houston Astros beat the Kansas City Royals 9-7. The Astros also got homers from Jeremy Peña, Alex Bregman and Aledmys Díaz as they extended their winning streak to a major league-best eight games. Nicky Lopez hit a deep flyball in the eighth that Alvarez caught and fired on the fly to catcher Martin Maldonado, who tagged out Dozier for an inning-ending double play. Alvarez then went deep to chants of “M-V-P!”The Royals take on the Astros again Wednesday evening with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Alvarez makes big throw, hits 25th homer, Astros top Royals

Northwest Missouri State guard and St. Joseph native Diego Bernard announced on Twitter Monday that he will be back with the Bearcats this coming season, using his fifth year of eligibility.

Bernard will now look to become the first DII player to win four national championships. He's been named the MIAA Defensive Player of the Year each of the last two seasons and is currently ninth in Bearcat history in scoring, fifth in rebounds, ninth in assists, fourth in steals, eighth in field goals made and eighth in free throws made.

Northwest brings back four starters from last season’s national championship team with Wes Dreamer, Luke Waters and Isaiah Jackson joining Bernard.

Forwards Byron Alexander and Daniel Abreu, along with guard Mitch Mascari, also return after playing big roles off the bench late last season for Northwest.

The Bearcats went 34-5 last year, winning a third consecutive national title.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614996727404.png" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostNorthwest Missouri State guard and St. Joseph native Diego Bernard announced on Twitter Monday that he will be back with the Bearcats this coming season, using his fifth year of eligibility.Bernard will now look to become the first DII player to win four national championships. He's been named the MIAA Defensive Player of the Year each of the last two seasons and is currently ninth in Bearcat history in scoring, fifth in rebounds, ninth in assists, fourth in steals, eighth in field goals made and eighth in free throws made.Northwest brings back four starters from last season’s national championship team with Wes Dreamer, Luke Waters and Isaiah Jackson joining Bernard.Forwards Byron Alexander and Daniel Abreu, along with guard Mitch Mascari, also return after playing big roles off the bench late last season for Northwest.The Bearcats went 34-5 last year, winning a third consecutive national title.

Diego Bernard returning to Northwest for fifth season

The St. Joseph Mustangs had a memorable Fourth of July weekend, as they won all five games in a homestand that stretched from Thursday to Monday.

After beating North Kansas City 9-4 in an exhibition Thursday, the Mustangs walked off Des Moines 7-6 Friday in 10 innings. Jack Wagner hit the go-ahead RBI single in the bottom of the 10th, scoring Brady Holden and Valentino Salgado to end the game.

The Mustangs used late-game drama again Saturday, defeating Clarinda 4-3. Savannah alum Noah Bodenhausen was the hero this time, as his RBI single scored Holden and LeBlond alum William Dryburgh, helping the Mustangs overcome a 3-0 deficit.

St. Joseph had an easier time Sunday, routing Chillicothe 13-3 in seven innings. St. Joseph Central alum Dawson Smith was sharp on the mound, striking out seven batters and walking just one in six innings.

The Mustangs capped it off Monday with another walk-off - this one against Sedalia. Wagner had another go-ahead RBI single that scored Holden, giving St. Joseph a 9-8 victory over the Bombers.

Holden, an alum of Mid-Buchanan and Missouri Western, was 3-for-5 Monday with two runs scored.

The Mustangs are now 21-8 and winners of six games in a row. St. Joseph will now enjoy a two-day break before playing at Jefferson City on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627707540785.jpeg" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs had a memorable Fourth of July weekend, as they won all five games in a homestand that stretched from Thursday to Monday.After beating North Kansas City 9-4 in an exhibition Thursday, the Mustangs walked off Des Moines 7-6 Friday in 10 innings. Jack Wagner hit the go-ahead RBI single in the bottom of the 10th, scoring Brady Holden and Valentino Salgado to end the game.The Mustangs used late-game drama again Saturday, defeating Clarinda 4-3. Savannah alum Noah Bodenhausen was the hero this time, as his RBI single scored Holden and LeBlond alum William Dryburgh, helping the Mustangs overcome a 3-0 deficit.St. Joseph had an easier time Sunday, routing Chillicothe 13-3 in seven innings. St. Joseph Central alum Dawson Smith was sharp on the mound, striking out seven batters and walking just one in six innings.The Mustangs capped it off Monday with another walk-off - this one against Sedalia. Wagner had another go-ahead RBI single that scored Holden, giving St. Joseph a 9-8 victory over the Bombers.Holden, an alum of Mid-Buchanan and Missouri Western, was 3-for-5 Monday with two runs scored.The Mustangs are now 21-8 and winners of six games in a row. St. Joseph will now enjoy a two-day break before playing at Jefferson City on Thursday.

Weekend of walk-offs - Mustangs sweep weekend homestand

(AP) — Yordan Alvarez homered with two outs in the ninth inning, and the Houston Astros beat the Kansas City Royals 7-6 for their seventh straight win. 

Led by Kyle Tucker and Alvarez, AL West-leading Houston erased a five-run deficit on the way to its 15th victory in its last 18 games overall.

 Tucker sparked the Astros’ three-run eighth with a two-run single, and Alvarez hit a drive to left-center against Scott Barlow for his 24th homer. Ryne Stanek pitched a scoreless ninth for the win.

The Royals take on the Astros again Tuesday evening with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

St. Joseph Post(AP) — Yordan Alvarez homered with two outs in the ninth inning, and the Houston Astros beat the Kansas City Royals 7-6 for their seventh straight win. Led by Kyle Tucker and Alvarez, AL West-leading Houston erased a five-run deficit on the way to its 15th victory in its last 18 games overall. Tucker sparked the Astros’ three-run eighth with a two-run single, and Alvarez hit a drive to left-center against Scott Barlow for his 24th homer. Ryne Stanek pitched a scoreless ninth for the win.The Royals take on the Astros again Tuesday evening with first pitch at 7:10 central. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Alvarez's 9th-inning HR lifts Astros 7-6 win over Royals

(AP) — Edward Olivares and Emmanuel Rivera homered in a three-run second inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat Detroit 7-4 to take two of three from the Tigers.

Tarik Skubal (5-7) lost his fifth straight start, allowing five runs, five hits and three walks in 4 2/3 innings.

 Detroit pitchers tied a season high with eight walks, including two with the bases loaded. José Cuas relieved Brady Singer with the bases loaded and a 5-2 lead with two outs in the fifth and retired Javier Báez on a lineout that right fielder Whit Merrifield got with a sliding catch.

The Royals take on the Astros Monday afternoon with first pitch at 3:10 central. Coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

St. Joseph Post(AP) — Edward Olivares and Emmanuel Rivera homered in a three-run second inning, and the Kansas City Royals beat Detroit 7-4 to take two of three from the Tigers. Tarik Skubal (5-7) lost his fifth straight start, allowing five runs, five hits and three walks in 4 2/3 innings. Detroit pitchers tied a season high with eight walks, including two with the bases loaded. José Cuas relieved Brady Singer with the bases loaded and a 5-2 lead with two outs in the fifth and retired Javier Báez on a lineout that right fielder Whit Merrifield got with a sliding catch.The Royals take on the Astros Monday afternoon with first pitch at 3:10 central. Coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Olivares, Rivera homer, Royals top Tigers 7-4, take 2 of 3

The St. Joseph Mustangs are in the midst of a five-game homestand and will be in town throughout the holiday weekend to entertain the hometown fans.

Mustangs owner and general manager Ky Turner says as usual, the team has some fun things planned to celebrate the 4th of July.

"It's family fun," he said. "Mom and Dad like baseball. Kids want to come out here and run around and enjoy themselves. On July 3rd, we have skydivers coming down and we're going to honor some local military heroes. We have different stuff going on for active and retired military."

The Mustangs host Des Moines Friday, Clarinda Saturday, Chillicothe Sunday and Sedalia on Monday the 4th. All of those games are set to start at 7 p.m. with gates opening at 5:30 each night.

There will be fireworks shows after the games on Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

The Mustangs opened their five-game homestand Thursday with a 9-4 win over North Kansas City. St. Joseph is now 18-8 with wins in nine of their last 11 games. Turner says July is always a big month with playoffs coming up in just a few weeks.

"It's really hard to pinpoint one person or a couple of names, because it seems like it's a total team effort," Turner pointed out. "So, to see them come out here and pulling together has just been so much fun. So, this is really when it starts to pick up as we turn from June to July."

The Mustangs, who sit a half-game out of first place in the North Division, seek their third straight MINK League title this season and their eighth since the team started in 2009.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656702425367.jpeg" alt="Courtesy St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs are in the midst of a five-game homestand and will be in town throughout the holiday weekend to entertain the hometown fans.Mustangs owner and general manager Ky Turner says as usual, the team has some fun things planned to celebrate the 4th of July."It's family fun," he said. "Mom and Dad like baseball. Kids want to come out here and run around and enjoy themselves. On July 3rd, we have skydivers coming down and we're going to honor some local military heroes. We have different stuff going on for active and retired military."The Mustangs host Des Moines Friday, Clarinda Saturday, Chillicothe Sunday and Sedalia on Monday the 4th. All of those games are set to start at 7 p.m. with gates opening at 5:30 each night.There will be fireworks shows after the games on Saturday, Sunday and Monday.The Mustangs opened their five-game homestand Thursday with a 9-4 win over North Kansas City. St. Joseph is now 18-8 with wins in nine of their last 11 games. Turner says July is always a big month with playoffs coming up in just a few weeks."It's really hard to pinpoint one person or a couple of names, because it seems like it's a total team effort," Turner pointed out. "So, to see them come out here and pulling together has just been so much fun. So, this is really when it starts to pick up as we turn from June to July."The Mustangs, who sit a half-game out of first place in the North Division, seek their third straight MINK League title this season and their eighth since the team started in 2009.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656702632615.jpeg" alt="Courtesy city of St. Joseph." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy city of St. Joseph.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mustangs ready to celebrate Fourth weekend with homestand, fireworks

(AP) — Victor Reyes and Riley Greene hit back-to-back homers in the ninth inning to give the Detroit Tigers a 4-3 win over the Kansas City Royals. 

With one out, Reyes tied the game off Royals reliever Joel Payamps. It was the first homer allowed by Payamps in 26 1/3 innings this season. 

Greene followed with the first homer of his career. Joe Jimenez (3-0) pitched a perfect ninth for the win as Detroit’s pitchers retired the last 17 batters they faced.

The Royals take on the Tigers again Sunday morning with first pitch at 11:05 central on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

St. Joseph Post(AP) — Victor Reyes and Riley Greene hit back-to-back homers in the ninth inning to give the Detroit Tigers a 4-3 win over the Kansas City Royals. With one out, Reyes tied the game off Royals reliever Joel Payamps. It was the first homer allowed by Payamps in 26 1/3 innings this season. Greene followed with the first homer of his career. Joe Jimenez (3-0) pitched a perfect ninth for the win as Detroit’s pitchers retired the last 17 batters they faced.The Royals take on the Tigers again Sunday morning with first pitch at 11:05 central on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Reyes, Greene homer in 9th, send Tigers past Royals 4-3

(AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino hit his first major league home run and Hunter Dozier followed with a drive into the bullpen, leading Brad Keller and the Kansas City Royals over the Detroit Tigers 3-1. 

Keller allowed five hits and two walks in six-plus scoreless innings. He’s won two of his last three outings after starting out 1-8. The Tigers scored in the ninth on Eric Haase’s sacrifice fly. Royals closer Scott Barlow walked Riley Greene, bringing the winning run to the plate, but he retired Willi Castro on the next pitch for his 11th save. 

Tigers starter Michael Pineda threw 65 pitches in his return from the injured list, giving up three runs and seven hits in five innings. He struck out three without a walk.

The Royals take on the Tigers again Saturday afternoon with first pitch at 3:10 central. Coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

St. Joseph Post(AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino hit his first major league home run and Hunter Dozier followed with a drive into the bullpen, leading Brad Keller and the Kansas City Royals over the Detroit Tigers 3-1. Keller allowed five hits and two walks in six-plus scoreless innings. He’s won two of his last three outings after starting out 1-8. The Tigers scored in the ninth on Eric Haase’s sacrifice fly. Royals closer Scott Barlow walked Riley Greene, bringing the winning run to the plate, but he retired Willi Castro on the next pitch for his 11th save. Tigers starter Michael Pineda threw 65 pitches in his return from the injured list, giving up three runs and seven hits in five innings. He struck out three without a walk.The Royals take on the Tigers again Saturday afternoon with first pitch at 3:10 central. Coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Pasquantino hits unusual 1st MLB homer, Royals beat Tigers

Kansas City Chiefs training camp is less than a month away, and St. Joseph is getting ready to roll out the red carpet and welcome Chiefs Kingdom to town for a 12th time.

Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission Brett Esely says this year's training camp is the first fully normal camp since 2019, and he expects increased travel and commerce.

"I feel like there's going to be an influx of folks who are coming to town this year, so what does that mean?" Esely said. "It means increased room nights. It means increased folks in our restaurants and shopping establishments. With that, it's always good when those people can have extracurricular things to do related to camp, but elsewhere in town."

The training camp attendance record was broken in 2019 with 63,000 people attending in all.

As of now, this is the last year that the Chiefs are required to come to St. Joseph and Missouri Western for camp. Practices will begin on July 27 with the first practice open to fans on the 28th and Red Rally on the 29th. 

Esely says the three weeks of training camp always provides a unique opportunity for St. Joseph to showcase itself.

"We want to make sure we're promoting our city and things to do in our city," he said. "Also, promoting simplified things of, 'Hey, practice today. If you need more information, this is where you go,' because we will have an influx of folks that have either not been to St. Joseph that much or at all. So, it's a really good opportunity for our community."&nbsp;

Looking a bit further ahead, the NCAA <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/4a11b8b7-11f7-4d11-aefa-fb89acdb82f5">Division II women's basketball Elite Eight</a> comes to Civic Arena this coming March for the fifth time ever and for the first time since 2011. Esely, who’s also the Elite Eight tournament director, says getting the arena ready to host is critical.

"These teams, some of them have been to the Elite Eight before and some of which have never been to the Elite Eight," Esely said. "They have worked hard all year to get to that point. That's what teams are working toward - to get to the Elite Eight and play for a national championship and you want to be sure that environment is lively."

Just this month, St. Joseph city council approved the purchase of new LED scorers' tables for Civic Arena, which will host the Elite Eight again in 2024 and has put in a bid to host state volleyball in 2025.

Of course in 2026, Kansas City will be a host city for the FIFA World Cup, attracting thousands of new people to the city and region. Esely says the city and Missouri Western State University could have a unique role when the World Cup rolls around.

"There's going to be a lot of communities in the sites of the games or in the surrounding communities of the sites of the games that are going to serve as hubs for countries competing in the World Cup," Esely said. "The folks from FIFA came and did a site visit at Missouri Western."

The World Cup is estimated to generate around $695 million of economic activity in the state of Missouri. The 2018 World Cup drew about 364 billion views over the nearly month-long event.

Needless to say, St. Joseph has some big things coming its way soon, and Esely says there’s always looking for more.

"We're always looking at what's next," he pointed out. "So, we're excited to host these events. But, we don't want these events to be the only events. We want to be in a regular cycle every year and to do that, we just have to do some things better than other communities do and I'm confident we'll do that."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627498009034.jpeg" alt="Fans watch training camp on a berm behind the end zone at the Mosaic Training Fields in 2021. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Fans watch training camp on a berm behind the end zone at the Mosaic Training Fields in 2021. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostKansas City Chiefs training camp is less than a month away, and St. Joseph is getting ready to roll out the red carpet and welcome Chiefs Kingdom to town for a 12th time.Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission Brett Esely says this year's training camp is the first fully normal camp since 2019, and he expects increased travel and commerce."I feel like there's going to be an influx of folks who are coming to town this year, so what does that mean?" Esely said. "It means increased room nights. It means increased folks in our restaurants and shopping establishments. With that, it's always good when those people can have extracurricular things to do related to camp, but elsewhere in town."The training camp attendance record was broken in 2019 with 63,000 people attending in all.As of now, this is the last year that the Chiefs are required to come to St. Joseph and Missouri Western for camp. Practices will begin on July 27 with the first practice open to fans on the 28th and Red Rally on the 29th. Esely says the three weeks of training camp always provides a unique opportunity for St. Joseph to showcase itself."We want to make sure we're promoting our city and things to do in our city," he said. "Also, promoting simplified things of, 'Hey, practice today. If you need more information, this is where you go,' because we will have an influx of folks that have either not been to St. Joseph that much or at all. So, it's a really good opportunity for our community."&nbsp;Looking a bit further ahead, the NCAA <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/4a11b8b7-11f7-4d11-aefa-fb89acdb82f5">Division II women's basketball Elite Eight</a> comes to Civic Arena this coming March for the fifth time ever and for the first time since 2011. Esely, who’s also the Elite Eight tournament director, says getting the arena ready to host is critical."These teams, some of them have been to the Elite Eight before and some of which have never been to the Elite Eight," Esely said. "They have worked hard all year to get to that point. That's what teams are working toward - to get to the Elite Eight and play for a national championship and you want to be sure that environment is lively."Just this month, St. Joseph city council approved the purchase of new LED scorers' tables for Civic Arena, which will host the Elite Eight again in 2024 and has put in a bid to host state volleyball in 2025.Of course in 2026, Kansas City will be a host city for the FIFA World Cup, attracting thousands of new people to the city and region. Esely says the city and Missouri Western State University could have a unique role when the World Cup rolls around."There's going to be a lot of communities in the sites of the games or in the surrounding communities of the sites of the games that are going to serve as hubs for countries competing in the World Cup," Esely said. "The folks from FIFA came and did a site visit at Missouri Western."The World Cup is estimated to generate around $695 million of economic activity in the state of Missouri. The 2018 World Cup drew about 364 billion views over the nearly month-long event.Needless to say, St. Joseph has some big things coming its way soon, and Esely says there’s always looking for more."We're always looking at what's next," he pointed out. "So, we're excited to host these events. But, we don't want these events to be the only events. We want to be in a regular cycle every year and to do that, we just have to do some things better than other communities do and I'm confident we'll do that."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646198539031.jpeg" alt="Stanberry students and fans celebrate during a boys' basketball sectional win over Mound City at Civic Arena in St. Joseph in early 2022. Civic Arena is set to host the NCAA Division II women's basketball Elite Eight tournament in 2023 and 2024 and has put in a bid to host state volleyball in 2025. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Stanberry students and fans celebrate during a boys' basketball sectional win over Mound City at Civic Arena in St. Joseph in early 2022. Civic Arena is set to host the NCAA Division II women's basketball Elite Eight tournament in 2023 and 2024 and has put in a bid to host state volleyball in 2025. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Chiefs camp, Elite Eight, World Cup - St. Joseph ready to host fans from near and far

(AP) — Zach Greinke allowed just one run on four hits, helping the Kansas City Royals avoid a three-game sweep by beating the Texas Rangers 2-1. 

Kansas City’s Kyle Isbel provided the winning cushion with his second home run in as many games. Greinke (2-4) made his 500th career start, becoming the 48th pitcher in Major League Baseball history to do so and the only active pitcher to reach that milestone. He went six innings, striking out three and walking one. 

Scott Barlow picked up his 10th save in 12 chances with a perfect ninth inning. Texas’ Dane Dunning suffered his first loss when allowing fewer than three runs this season. He gave up six hits in six innings, walking three and striking out three.

The Royals next take on the Tigers Friday evening with first pitch at 6:10 central. Coverage begins at 5:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

St. Joseph Post(AP) — Zach Greinke allowed just one run on four hits, helping the Kansas City Royals avoid a three-game sweep by beating the Texas Rangers 2-1. Kansas City’s Kyle Isbel provided the winning cushion with his second home run in as many games. Greinke (2-4) made his 500th career start, becoming the 48th pitcher in Major League Baseball history to do so and the only active pitcher to reach that milestone. He went six innings, striking out three and walking one. Scott Barlow picked up his 10th save in 12 chances with a perfect ninth inning. Texas’ Dane Dunning suffered his first loss when allowing fewer than three runs this season. He gave up six hits in six innings, walking three and striking out three.The Royals next take on the Tigers Friday evening with first pitch at 6:10 central. Coverage begins at 5:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Greinke sharp in 500th career start, Royals beat Rangers 2-1

(AP) — Marcus Semien homered and drove in four runs, Jon Gray pitched seven effective innings and the Texas Rangers beat the Kansas City Royals 8-3. 

Corey Seager hit a two-run double as the Rangers handed last-place Kansas City its fourth consecutive defeat. They’ve outscored the Royals 18-7 in the first two games of the series. Semien had three hits and scored three times. His three-run homer off starter Jonathan Heasley made it 4-0 in the third. 

Gray matched his longest outing of the season. He allowed one run and five hits with two walks and eight strikeouts. Touted prospect Vinnie Pasquantino went 0 for 4 in his major league debut for the Royals.

The Royals take on the Rangers again Wednesday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 central on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

St. Joseph Post(AP) — Marcus Semien homered and drove in four runs, Jon Gray pitched seven effective innings and the Texas Rangers beat the Kansas City Royals 8-3. Corey Seager hit a two-run double as the Rangers handed last-place Kansas City its fourth consecutive defeat. They’ve outscored the Royals 18-7 in the first two games of the series. Semien had three hits and scored three times. His three-run homer off starter Jonathan Heasley made it 4-0 in the third. Gray matched his longest outing of the season. He allowed one run and five hits with two walks and eight strikeouts. Touted prospect Vinnie Pasquantino went 0 for 4 in his major league debut for the Royals.The Royals take on the Rangers again Wednesday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 central on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Semien, Gray lead Rangers to 8-3 win over struggling Royals

IRVING, Texas – Brett Yormark has been named the Big 12 Conference’s fifth Commissioner, as announced Wednesday by the league’s Board of Directors, according to a statement from the conference.

Yormark succeeds Bob Bowlsby, who announced in April he was stepping away from the Commissioner’s chair after a decade with the Big 12. KEY COMMENTS

NBA Commissioner, Adam Silver: “Brett is one of the most skilled and knowledgeable executives in sports and entertainment,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.&nbsp; “His decades of operational experience, relentless work ethic and strong industry relationships will be of enormous value to the Big 12, its schools and fans.” Fox Sports CEO and Executive Producer, Eric Shanks: “On behalf of FOX Sports, we’d like to officially congratulate Brett Yormark on being named the new Commissioner of the Big 12,” said Eric Shanks, CEO and Executive Producer of FOX Sports. “Brett is a talented and innovative executive who brings a remarkably unique perspective to the position. Under his leadership and vision, the conference is set up for success, and we look forward to continuing to build on our relationship as a premier partner of the Big 12.” Texas Tech University President and Big 12 Conference Board Chair, Lawrence Schovanec: “In Brett Yormark, we have chosen a highly adaptable leader who thrives in dynamic times. The landscape of college athletics is evolving to look more like the world Brett has been leading,” said Lawrence Schovanec, President of Texas Tech University and Chair of the Big 12 Conference Board of Directors. “He’s authentic and genuine in the way he builds relationships and partnerships, and he works relentlessly to deliver impact. As Brett immerses himself in college sports and connects with all our stakeholders, he will bring a fresh approach and dynamic energy to the Big 12 as we engage a new generation of student-athletes and fans.” “I want to thank my fellow board members and our partners at TurnkeyZRG. Turnkey is more than just a search firm; they orchestrated a flawless strategy and process, delivering strong interest and strong candidates from college and professional sports, as well as the media and entertainment industries,” added Schovanec. New Big 12 Conference Commissioner, Brett Yormark: “Thank you to the Big 12 Board, the ADs, the student-athletes, the whole Conference for giving me a chance to support what they all do,” said new Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark. “I’m here to listen, learn, find ways to add value, add resources and try to help shine a light on the importance of college athletics. I look forward to leveraging my experience and network alongside our presidents, chancellors and athletic directors to shape the future of the Big 12 brand and emphasize our collective strengths.”&nbsp; Yormark joins the Big 12 from Roc Nation, where he served as chief operating officer and co-CEO of Roc Nation Unified, the commercial side of the business. Yormark, a graduate of Indiana University, began his sports career in 1988, working in the ticket office for the New Jersey Nets and ultimately reaching the pinnacle of the industry when he was named CEO. From 2005-19, as CEO of the Brooklyn Nets and Barclays Center, he oversaw their move from New Jersey to Brooklyn, building the first new arena in New York City in 60 years and re-launching the Nets organization and brand in Brooklyn. Barclays Center soon became a college basketball destination, attracting the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, the ACC Men’s Basketball Tournament, and the Atlantic 10 Conference Men’s Basketball Tournament. Prior to joining the Nets, Yormark served as vice president of corporate sponsorships for NASCAR, where he oversaw a $750 million partnership agreement, the largest in history at that time, that gave Nextel Communications the naming rights to its premier racing series. Yormark is recognized for his creative business approaches and has been named to&nbsp;Crain’s “40 Under 40” list twice and the “Forty Under 40” three times by the&nbsp;Sports Business Journal. Under Yormark’s leadership, the Barclays Center became one of the top 10 entertainment venues worldwide for ticket sales. Yormark has two children and is married to Elaina Scotto. The Big 12 Commissioner search was led by the conference’s Executive Committee, which includes Schovanec, Baylor President Linda A. Livingstone and Kansas Chancellor Douglas A. Girod, with the assistance of national search firm TurnkeyZRG. The Big 12’s Board of Directors, comprised of the presidents and chancellors of the ten current Big 12 members, participated in the Commissioner interview process, along with the four new members of the conference who will enter the Big 12 in 2023. The Big 12’s current membership made the final selection of the Commissioner. Yormark’s official start date with the Big 12 is anticipated to be August 1. His initial contract term is five years. As announced in April, Bowlsby will transition to a new interim role with the Conference, subject to the mutual agreement of the new Commissioner and Bowlsby. The current Big 12 membership includes Baylor University, Iowa State University, Kansas State University, Oklahoma State University, Texas Christian University, Texas Tech University, University of Kansas, University of Oklahoma, University of Texas and West Virginia University. Entering Big 12 membership in the Summer of 2023 will be Brigham Young University, University of Central Florida, University of Cincinnati and University of Houston.&nbsp; Over the past decade, the Big 12 has won 32 team national championships. In 2021-22, the Big 12 captured 8 team national titles, including NCAA men’s basketball for the second consecutive season (Baylor and Kansas). Big 12 teams have played in the last four men’s Final Fours. In football, the Big 12 has placed teams in the College Football Playoff New Year’s Bowls throughout its eight-year history. The Big 12 is the home of two of the last five Heisman Trophy winners and was the only Conference to place a team in the Final Four and CFP semi-finals in 2017-18 and 2018-19.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656517373265.png" alt="Brett Yormark -image courtesy Big 12 Conference" />
 <figcaption>Brett Yormark -image courtesy Big 12 Conference</figcaption>
 </figure>IRVING, Texas – Brett Yormark has been named the Big 12 Conference’s fifth Commissioner, as announced Wednesday by the league’s Board of Directors, according to a statement from the conference.Yormark succeeds Bob Bowlsby, who announced in April he was stepping away from the Commissioner’s chair after a decade with the Big 12. KEY COMMENTS<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Welcome to the Big 12 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KState?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KState</a> x <a href="https://twitter.com/KSTATEADGT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KSTATEADGT</a> <a href="https://t.co/P9rSqXEeyY">pic.twitter.com/P9rSqXEeyY</a>&mdash; K-State Athletics (@kstatesports) <a href="https://twitter.com/kstatesports/status/1542171076842717187?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> NBA Commissioner, Adam Silver: “Brett is one of the most skilled and knowledgeable executives in sports and entertainment,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.&nbsp; “His decades of operational experience, relentless work ethic and strong industry relationships will be of enormous value to the Big 12, its schools and fans.” Fox Sports CEO and Executive Producer, Eric Shanks: “On behalf of FOX Sports, we’d like to officially congratulate Brett Yormark on being named the new Commissioner of the Big 12,” said Eric Shanks, CEO and Executive Producer of FOX Sports. “Brett is a talented and innovative executive who brings a remarkably unique perspective to the position. Under his leadership and vision, the conference is set up for success, and we look forward to continuing to build on our relationship as a premier partner of the Big 12.” Texas Tech University President and Big 12 Conference Board Chair, Lawrence Schovanec: “In Brett Yormark, we have chosen a highly adaptable leader who thrives in dynamic times. The landscape of college athletics is evolving to look more like the world Brett has been leading,” said Lawrence Schovanec, President of Texas Tech University and Chair of the Big 12 Conference Board of Directors. “He’s authentic and genuine in the way he builds relationships and partnerships, and he works relentlessly to deliver impact. As Brett immerses himself in college sports and connects with all our stakeholders, he will bring a fresh approach and dynamic energy to the Big 12 as we engage a new generation of student-athletes and fans.” “I want to thank my fellow board members and our partners at TurnkeyZRG. Turnkey is more than just a search firm; they orchestrated a flawless strategy and process, delivering strong interest and strong candidates from college and professional sports, as well as the media and entertainment industries,” added Schovanec. New Big 12 Conference Commissioner, Brett Yormark: “Thank you to the Big 12 Board, the ADs, the student-athletes, the whole Conference for giving me a chance to support what they all do,” said new Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark. “I’m here to listen, learn, find ways to add value, add resources and try to help shine a light on the importance of college athletics. I look forward to leveraging my experience and network alongside our presidents, chancellors and athletic directors to shape the future of the Big 12 brand and emphasize our collective strengths.”&nbsp; Yormark joins the Big 12 from Roc Nation, where he served as chief operating officer and co-CEO of Roc Nation Unified, the commercial side of the business. Yormark, a graduate of Indiana University, began his sports career in 1988, working in the ticket office for the New Jersey Nets and ultimately reaching the pinnacle of the industry when he was named CEO. From 2005-19, as CEO of the Brooklyn Nets and Barclays Center, he oversaw their move from New Jersey to Brooklyn, building the first new arena in New York City in 60 years and re-launching the Nets organization and brand in Brooklyn. Barclays Center soon became a college basketball destination, attracting the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, the ACC Men’s Basketball Tournament, and the Atlantic 10 Conference Men’s Basketball Tournament. Prior to joining the Nets, Yormark served as vice president of corporate sponsorships for NASCAR, where he oversaw a $750 million partnership agreement, the largest in history at that time, that gave Nextel Communications the naming rights to its premier racing series. Yormark is recognized for his creative business approaches and has been named to&nbsp;Crain’s “40 Under 40” list twice and the “Forty Under 40” three times by the&nbsp;Sports Business Journal. Under Yormark’s leadership, the Barclays Center became one of the top 10 entertainment venues worldwide for ticket sales. Yormark has two children and is married to Elaina Scotto. The Big 12 Commissioner search was led by the conference’s Executive Committee, which includes Schovanec, Baylor President Linda A. Livingstone and Kansas Chancellor Douglas A. Girod, with the assistance of national search firm TurnkeyZRG. The Big 12’s Board of Directors, comprised of the presidents and chancellors of the ten current Big 12 members, participated in the Commissioner interview process, along with the four new members of the conference who will enter the Big 12 in 2023. The Big 12’s current membership made the final selection of the Commissioner. Yormark’s official start date with the Big 12 is anticipated to be August 1. His initial contract term is five years. As announced in April, Bowlsby will transition to a new interim role with the Conference, subject to the mutual agreement of the new Commissioner and Bowlsby. The current Big 12 membership includes Baylor University, Iowa State University, Kansas State University, Oklahoma State University, Texas Christian University, Texas Tech University, University of Kansas, University of Oklahoma, University of Texas and West Virginia University. Entering Big 12 membership in the Summer of 2023 will be Brigham Young University, University of Central Florida, University of Cincinnati and University of Houston.&nbsp; Over the past decade, the Big 12 has won 32 team national championships. In 2021-22, the Big 12 captured 8 team national titles, including NCAA men’s basketball for the second consecutive season (Baylor and Kansas). Big 12 teams have played in the last four men’s Final Fours. In football, the Big 12 has placed teams in the College Football Playoff New Year’s Bowls throughout its eight-year history. The Big 12 is the home of two of the last five Heisman Trophy winners and was the only Conference to place a team in the Final Four and CFP semi-finals in 2017-18 and 2018-19.

Big 12 Conference names new commissioner

The St. Joseph Mustangs overcame a 5-0 deficit, scoring four runs in the bottom of the ninth and beating Jefferson City in walk-off fashion 6-5 Tuesday at Phil Welch Stadium.

Tyler Petrosino hit the go-ahead RBI single to center with two on and two out in the ninth, scoring Ryan Koski and Jaxon Himel for the winning runs.

Petrosino went 3-for-4 with two RBIs. Michael Paule was 2-for-4 with a pair of runs scored. The Mustangs’ record improves to 17-8, and they’ve now won eight of their last 10 games.

St. Joseph is off Wednesday, but stays home Thursday to host North Kansas City. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs overcame a 5-0 deficit, scoring four runs in the bottom of the ninth and beating Jefferson City in walk-off fashion 6-5 Tuesday at Phil Welch Stadium.Tyler Petrosino hit the go-ahead RBI single to center with two on and two out in the ninth, scoring Ryan Koski and Jaxon Himel for the winning runs.Petrosino went 3-for-4 with two RBIs. Michael Paule was 2-for-4 with a pair of runs scored. The Mustangs’ record improves to 17-8, and they’ve now won eight of their last 10 games.St. Joseph is off Wednesday, but stays home Thursday to host North Kansas City. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.